Living the dream

Abstract

This paper is a written record of the Plenary Address given by Debra Lampshire at the 17th International Congress of the International Society for the Psychological Treatments of the Schizophrenia and other Psychoses, in Dubrovnik, on Friday 3 June 2011. Debra gives an eloquent and lyrical account of her journey and personal experiences, from her times whilst in institutional care though to her current role of working as an experienced-based expert at Auckland University and project manager for Auckland District Health Board, in New Zealand. Debra speaks of her decline into madness and the lessons, skills and personal resourcefulness she discovered to propel her into creating a life of her own choice. She also speaks of her observations and resolutions from her time spent with people marginalized and disenfranchised by society who strive to retain their sense of identity, dignity and personal agency. The journey Debra began all those years ago is embarked upon still, by those entering mental health services. What is the message that service users would like to bring to clinicians, what is it that they truly desire and need from the people who choose to work in the field of mental health?

Keywords:

• recovery
• psychosis
• hearing voices
• service users
• partnership